### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâgach**, represented by `{{H5055}}`, is a primitive root that means **to butt with the horns**. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. While its base meaning is a physical act, it is figuratively used to describe warring against an opponent and is translated as **gore** or **push** (down, -ing).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5055}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Its literal application is found in legal codes, where it describes an **ox** `{{H7794}}` that may **gore** a man or a woman [[Exodus 21:28]] or **push** a servant [[Exodus 21:32]]. Figuratively, the term is a powerful metaphor for military conflict and conquest. It is used to describe how Israel will **push down** its enemies through God's power [[Psalms 44:5]]. This imagery is also central to prophecy, as when Zedekiah makes iron **horns** `{{H7161}}` to symbolize pushing the Syrians to their destruction [[1 Kings 22:11]] and in Daniel's vision of a ram **pushing** in all directions, unopposed [[Daniel 8:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and impact of this aggressive action:
* `{{H7161}}` **qeren** (horn): This is the instrument used for the action of `{{H5055}}`. It is used metaphorically as the **horn** of salvation [[Psalms 18:2]] and literally in the prophecy where iron **horns** are made to represent the act of pushing Syria until it is consumed [[1 Kings 22:11]].
* `{{H7794}}` **shôwr** (ox, bullock): This is the animal most directly associated with the literal act of goring. The law in Exodus specifies the consequences if an **ox** gores a person [[Exodus 21:28]] or pushes a servant [[Exodus 21:32]], grounding the word in agricultural and legal reality.
* `{{H1920}}` **hâdaph** (to push away or down): This verb, meaning to **thrust** or drive away, is used in conjunction with `{{H5055}}` to intensify the description of an attack. The corrupt leaders of Israel are condemned because they **thrust** with side and shoulder and **pushed** the weak with their horns [[Ezekiel 34:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and metaphorical weight of `{{H5055}}` is significant, moving from a physical act to a symbol of power and judgment.
* **Legal Accountability:** The word is foundational in the Law of Moses for establishing responsibility. The detailed rules for an ox that gores a person establish a clear principle of accountability for the actions of one's property ([[Exodus 21:28]], [[Exodus 21:31]]).
* **Metaphor for Warfare:** `{{H5055}}` consistently serves as a metaphor for military conquest. Israel expresses its trust that God will enable them to **push down** their **enemies** `{{H6862}}` [[Psalms 44:5]], and prophetic visions use the term to describe conflicts between kings [[Daniel 11:40]].
* **Symbol of Dominion and Power:** The act of pushing symbolizes national strength and divinely-ordained dominion. In the blessing on Joseph's descendants, their power is compared to the **horns** of **unicorns** `{{H7214}}`, with which they will **push** the people together [[Deuteronomy 33:17]]. This illustrates a nation's ability to exert its will.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5055}}` is more than a simple verb of action. It begins as a concrete term for an animal goring with its horns and evolves into a potent biblical symbol. It carries the weight of legal responsibility in the Torah and serves as a vivid metaphor for military force, national dominance, and the execution of power in both historical and prophetic contexts.
TRV